Scrap metal recycling is not a new concept. Some people say that it is necessary, while others may disagree. Other people talk about the significant profits they can obtain from recycling scrap metals. But not everyone finds recycling a desirable task, causing them to ignore its benefits. We all have rubbish at home, but how many of us genuinely consider waste as a treasure trove?
In reality, there is still a lot to learn about scrap metal recycling. Many people understand recycling paper, glass, and plastics, but scrap metal can be a little confusing. And there are some myths and misconceptions about scrap metal that should be cleared and explained further. This blog aims to clarify these fallacies so that you can have a better understanding next time you recycle scrap metal.
7 Myths About Scrap Metal Recycling
Let’s get to the truth. It’s time to debunk seven popular misinformation and misconceptions about scrap metal recycling:
1. Scrap Metal Recycling is Far from Being Environmentally Friendly
It’s a common belief that recycling can benefit the Earth. However, you truly cannot please and convince everybody since there are still several sceptics out there. Certain groups are against scrap metal recycling because they believe it does not reduce greenhouse emissions.
Nothing could be farther than the truth. Scrap metal recycling and recycling in general significantly reduces these damaging gas emissions, which are produced when using virgin iron ore to make metal.
An undeniable fact is that natural resources are conserved through scrap metal recycling. Just a tonne of recycled steel can lead to over 1,130 kg (2,500 pounds) of conserved iron ore. And if that’s not enough, the amount of energy saved just by using recycled steel is enough to power more than 15 million homes each year.
2. Scrap Metal Recycling is Overrated
You’ve heard about how you can earn some cash for recycling metal, especially unusual scrap metal. However, some people dispute this statement. They have also expressed that there is no demand for scrap metal recycling, which is a huge myth.
The demand for scrap has dramatically increased over the past few decades. Steel, aluminium, and other metals can be melted down, repurposed, and reused without losing strength and quality. That’s why they have become some of the most in-demand scrap metals.
Indeed, you will not become a millionaire for selling unneeded items with metal components. However, you earn some money compared to leaving them to rot in your home or throwing them into the bin.
3. Recycling Scrap Metal is Too Complicated
Sorting your scrap is truly helpful, but it is not required. Many scrap yards, such as Collins Recycling, will take your mixed load of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Your electronic scrap (called e-waste), along with many other materials, will also be accepted. When recycling electronics, you do not have to remove batteries.
There’s also no need to pull e-waste apart because the Collins Recycling team will do it on the facility, so you no longer have to. This means the staff will take care of the processing of metal parts to prepare and sort them for repurposing whilst removing alloys from the collection.
4. Scrap Yards are Not Safe
It’s understandable to think that scrap yards are dangerous and scary. But you will surely change your mind when you visit our scrap yard. We understand that many people get intimidated and worried, especially on their first visit. It’s mostly because they think scrap yards consist of sharp items, crushed metals, and a mountain of rubbish surrounded by heavy machinery.
Recycling companies like Collins Recycling are dedicated to keeping the environment safe. At the same time, we take everyone’s safety seriously, which also involves our customers and visitors. Whether you want to see our facilities for yourself or you wish to drop off scrap, you will find that we care about the cleanliness and safety of our recycling centre.
5. Bigger is Better
Do you have an old washing machine that you wish to get rid of? How about that heavy TV that takes up a huge space in your living room? When you are ready to buy a new piece of equipment, you probably think the best way is to send them to a scrapyard. Due to their weight and size, you will get more money out of them, right? WRONG!
Just because the items are large does not necessarily mean you will receive the best price when you sell them. Lots of factors affect the payment you get for the scrap you send. If it’s unusual scrap metal, you will surely get more out of it compared to standard materials.
6. Burning is Effective in Stripping Copper Wires
You may have seen some people do it, but burning copper wires is a HUGE NO-NO. We want to reiterate that you should never burn copper wire under any circumstances. It’s not an effective way to remove the insulation at all. Additionally, this activity harms the environment due to the fumes it produces.
Another bad thing about burning is that it degrades the copper. So, when you send it to our scrap yard, you will likely get a lower price for it. Burning is surely a quick way to dissolve or strip the wiring. However, it is not a good option at all. So, forget about it. Instead, use the sun’s natural heat to soften the wire and hand-strip it afterwards.
7. The Scrap Metal Recycling Business is a Complete Rip-Off
“It’s not a fair deal,” some people complain when they send their scrap metal to a recycling centre. They believe that they should get more than what they were paid. But the actual value of scrap metals keeps changing. Suppose you want to get serious money. In that case, you should first collect a considerable amount of scrap and ensure that you have rare or unusual scrap metal.
Another issue is that processing and recycling scrap metal can be complicated. It involves stripping items down using machinery to collect individual pieces. There are times when moving the parts can already be a challenge. For this reason, scrap yards should consider their expenses and labour costs.
Nevertheless, if you’re dealing with a reputable business, such as Collins Recycling, you can be sure that you will get a fair payout.
Don’t fall for these myths! Recycling scrap metal is not an overhyped activity without an actual purpose. It comes with valuable benefits for you, the economy, and the environment. Because of recycling, industries do not have problems with metal supply shortages. Start your scrap metal recycling journey with Collins Recycling, where you can get the best scrap metal rates in WA
